Stop And Smell The Roseshttps://sastr.ca
SASTR By Coulson's CannabisMon, 17 Dec 2018 20:46:56 +0000en-CAhourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=5.0.1https://sastr.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/SASTR-LOGO-resized-50x50.pngStop And Smell The Roseshttps://sastr.ca
3232144583497The Benefits of a Local Cannabis Retailerhttps://sastr.ca/2018/12/17/the-benefits-of-a-local-cannabis-retailer/
https://sastr.ca/2018/12/17/the-benefits-of-a-local-cannabis-retailer/#respondMon, 17 Dec 2018 19:14:20 +0000http://sastr.ca/?p=1755Dear readers, My name is Shelby Andrews. Last January, our Founder Cody Coulson reached out to me in hopes that I could assist him with his marketing plans for Stop & Smell the Roses. At the time, I was unfamiliar with the cannabis industry and had no idea what CBD was. I was hesitant to get […]

My name is Shelby Andrews. Last January, our Founder Cody Coulson reached out to me in hopes that I could assist him with his marketing plans for Stop & Smell the Roses. At the time, I was unfamiliar with the cannabis industry and had no idea what CBD was. I was hesitant to get involved in such a new industry full of hot-button topics, but after listening to Cody explain how this plant could help so many people, I decided to take the risk.

Cody and I—along with his passionate team of experts—have spent the past year spreading awareness about hemp-based wellness and building SASTR into a cannabis brand our communities can trust. As a team, we understand that the cannabis industry is new and quickly emerging. That’s why we put such a strong emphasis on educating the public in any way possible.

We want our communities to have access to information about safe consumption, the difference between cannabis strains, and more. We have worked hard to ensure our communities feel like they have a safe confident in SASTR when it comes to gathering information.

We know that small communities in Ontario do not have the same access to cannabis information or safe, reliable cannabis product as those living in the city. We think it’s important to provide this access and opportunity in our small communities.

Working with the SASTR team has been a truly eye-opening experience. Not only has SASTR educated me on the cannabis plant and all the misconceptions surrounding the industry, but Cody and his team have given me the opportunity to wake up each morning and do something that I love.I have never been surrounded by such a passionate, motivated group of people.As the cannabis industry continues to grow, this team is absolutely dedicated to education. Each and every team member spends time researching, studying and sharing their knowledge with our beloved customers.

Now that recreational cannabis has become legal and municipalities will have the opportunity to allow private retailers to sell safe, legal product, we feel it is our duty to educate you on the benefits of this decision.

Keeping cannabis out of the hands of minors

In a smaller community, it is often difficult to keep adult substances out of the hands of minors. By allowing SASTR to be your municipality’s source of recreational cannabis, we can help ensure product stays in the hands of those 19+.

Our stores will include a secured lobby where customers must present their IDs prior to getting into the actual store. This will ensure no minors are being exposed to product.

All sales will be to those 19+.

Creating a safe place to purchase recreational cannabis

By providing a safe, reliable storefront to purchase recreational cannabis, we will be eliminating the need for illegal, black market cannabis distributors.

Creating local job opportunities

Should we be able to sell recreational cannabis, the expansion of our stores would create approximately 25 + positions in your municipality in 2019.

Creating local spending

Shopping local is a large and extremely important part of all of our SASTR communities.By having a local cannabis retailer, residents will not have to travel to a bigger city to purchase their cannabis.

Creating a safe space for you to ask questions and get proper, informed answers

As the cannabis industry continues to grow, it is becoming increasingly important to ensure the public has access to accurate information. When searching online, there is a wide range of conflicting information, opinions and resources. At SASTR, we pride ourselves on providing as much information as possible to our communities.

Here are some of the steps we will be taking to ensure our communities are properly educated:

Before an employee steps foot on our sales floor, they will attend a mandatory training course provided by Lift & Co. in collaboration with MADD Canada. The course will teach them everything they need to know about safe cannabis sales.

Our stores will feature a concierge program where customers can find their strain based on how they want to feel, what they are using cannabis for and their budget.

We provide free in-store consultations, where customers have the opportunity to speak one-on-one with one of our industry experts. During the consultation, customers can ask us any and all questions about the hemp and cannabis plants.

If you have questions about the cannabis industry, private retail or any related topic, contact us!We’re happy to help.

]]>https://sastr.ca/2018/12/17/the-benefits-of-a-local-cannabis-retailer/feed/01755Cannabis Terpenes: What They Are & How They Workhttps://sastr.ca/2018/12/10/cannabis-terpenes-what-they-are-how-they-work/
https://sastr.ca/2018/12/10/cannabis-terpenes-what-they-are-how-they-work/#respondMon, 10 Dec 2018 14:45:56 +0000http://sastr.ca/?p=1744Terpenes play a key role in differentiating cannabis strains. The distinct aroma you smell (whether sweet, skunky or otherwise) in each different strain is due to which terpene combination is in that particular strain. Aside from the smell, each different terpene also promotes different outcomes, such as stress-relief, relaxation or focus to name a few. […]

]]>Terpenes play a key role in differentiating cannabis strains. The distinct aroma you smell (whether sweet, skunky or otherwise) in each different strain is due to which terpene combination is in that particular strain. Aside from the smell, each different terpene also promotes different outcomes, such as stress-relief, relaxation or focus to name a few.

What are terpenes?

Terpenes can be defined as aromatic compounds found in the essential oils of plants and fruits. Different terpenes can make you feel stimulated, sedated, relaxed and so much more. So far, over 100 different terpenes have been discovered in the cannabis plant.

Terpenes are secreted in the same plant glands that produce cannabinoids (THC and CBD for example). They give cannabis strains distinct smells and flavours, such as citrus, mint, pine and more.

The entourage effect

Not only do terpenes provide scents and tastes to cannabis, they also interact synergistically with other compounds in the plant, specifically, cannabinoids. While each terpene has its own unique properties (for example, limonene is known to elevate mood), they also interact with cannabinoids such as THC and CBD to help strengthen their effects.

The effect of any given terpene can actually change when used in harmony with other compounds and cannabinoids. We call this the entourage effect. This is why we differentiate single molecule and full spectrum CBD, for example.

Common cannabis terpenes

To help break down some of the most common terpenes, we’ve collected some amazing infographics from Leafly to share with you:

]]>https://sastr.ca/2018/12/10/cannabis-terpenes-what-they-are-how-they-work/feed/01744Common Cannabis Termshttps://sastr.ca/2018/12/03/common-cannabis-terms/
https://sastr.ca/2018/12/03/common-cannabis-terms/#respondMon, 03 Dec 2018 20:37:12 +0000http://sastr.ca/?p=1738Are you new to the cannabis industry? Looking to learn about the cannabis plant but don’t know where to start? Confused by all the cannabis lingo? This week, we’re providing you with definitions to some of the most common industry terms. Aroma A term used to describe the smell or taste of a specific cannabis […]

]]>Are you new to the cannabis industry? Looking to learn about the cannabis plant but don’t know where to start? Confused by all the cannabis lingo? This week, we’re providing you with definitions to some of the most common industry terms.

Aroma

A term used to describe the smell or taste of a specific cannabis flower or strain. Keep in mind, aroma descriptions typically differ from person to person, so consider it a general guideline.

Cannabinoids

Chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant that interact with the human body’s cannabinoid receptors. As a result, they can produce various effects on the body such as pain or anxiety relief. The two most popular cannabinoids are THC and CBD (which we will explain later in the blog).

CBD (Cannabidiol)

One of the main cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. CBD is non toxicating. It is best known for relieving anxiety, inflammation and many other medical ailments. CBD interacts with different receptors throughout the brain and body that help regulate things like adenosine, serotonin and vanilloid. These receptors help the body produce dopamine (which regulates mood, memory and pain perception) and glutamate (which helps with brain cognitive function in the body).

Concentrates

A potent amalgamation of cannabinoids. Concentrates are made by dissolving plant-form cannabis into a solvent. As a result, these products have very high THC levels and can be made into various products such as budder, shatter or hash.

Hybrid

A plant that is genetically crossed between two different cannabis strains.

Indica

Indica, named by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck, was used to describe the psychoactive plant varieties discovered in India. Here, the plant was harvested for seeds, fibre and hashish production. The term “indica” is used to describe short, stout, broad-leaf plants with a short flowering cycle. People looking for relaxing, physically sedating results typically turn to indica strains.

Sativa

Sativa, named by Carl Linneaus, was used to describe hemp plants found in Europe and Western Eurasia, where the plant was used for its fiber and seeds. The term “sativa” is used to describe tall, narrow-leaf plants with a longer flowering cycle. Those looking for an uplifting, cerebral, creative experience tend to lean toward a sativa cannabis strain.

Strain

A specific variety of cannabis plant. Different strains are created to make distinct traits in plants, that all allow specific desired outcomes when consuming. Strains are usually named by their original breeders based on their promised “buzz.”

THC

The most prominent cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. THC (or Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol) provides a more psychoactive experience. It can also make you feel hungry, and relieve feelings of physical pain.

Terpenes

Terpenes can be defined as aromatic compounds found in the essential oils of plants and fruits. Different terpenes can make you feel stimulated, sedated, relaxed and so much more, depending on which ones you use.

Trichome

The resin production glands of the cannabis plant. Cannabinoids are all produced within these glands. They also feature small, sticky protrusions called crystals.

Have more questions about the industry? Contact us, we’re happy to help.

]]>https://sastr.ca/2018/12/03/common-cannabis-terms/feed/017385 Must-Try Hemp Seed Recipeshttps://sastr.ca/2018/11/19/5-must-try-hemp-seed-recipes/
https://sastr.ca/2018/11/19/5-must-try-hemp-seed-recipes/#respondMon, 19 Nov 2018 14:38:12 +0000http://sastr.ca/?p=1734Hemp seed is an excellent food to incorporate into your diet – they’re rich in healthy fats, minerals and protein. But most importantly, they taste delicious and are an extremely versatile food – it’s incredibly simple to add them into your favourite recipes. To learn more about why hemp seeds are so great for your […]

]]>Hemp seed is an excellent food to incorporate into your diet – they’re rich in healthy fats, minerals and protein. But most importantly, they taste delicious and are an extremely versatile food – it’s incredibly simple to add them into your favourite recipes.

To learn more about why hemp seeds are so great for your health, you can check out our previous blog here.

Peanut butter and jam smoothie

For all the smoothie lovers out there, hemp seeds are an amazing (and simple) addition to your daily drink.

Ingredients

1 cup vanilla almond milk

2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped

½ cup raw cashews, soaked for 2-5 hours

1 ½ cup ice

1 tablespoon peanut butter

1 teaspoon hemp hearts

Instructions

Blend and enjoy!

Banana hemp seed muffins

Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, these muffins are a healthy spin of your favourite comfort food.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons ground flax seeds

6 tablespoons warm water

1 cup all-purpose flower

1 teaspoon baking soda

1½ teaspoons baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

½ cup sugar

½ cup coconut oil, melted but not hot

2 ripe bananas, smashed

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

¼ cup hemp hearts

* you can also throw in ½ cup of chocolate chips or chopped walnuts to add flavour!

Instructions

Preheat oven to 325F. Prepare a muffin pan with liners

In a medium bowl, mix ground flax seeds with warm water and set aside

In a large mixing bowl, mix flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt

Back in the bowl with the flax seeds; smash the bananas into the flax seeds, add sugar, oil, vanilla extract and mix well

Add the wet ingredients into the dry and mix

Add in the hemp seeds and stir to combine

Scoop into the muffin pan

Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden on top

Creamy hemp pesto sauce

Pesto sauce is an easy way to add an extra twist to your usual dinner staples. Whether you use it to make a pasta dish, spread it on chicken breast or mix it into your cooked veggies, pesto can turn almost any “mundane” meal into something special!

Ingredients

1 ½ cups hemp hearts

Juice of 2 fresh lemons

½ cup water

1 cup basil leaves, packed

2 garlic cloves, peeled

½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Combine all ingredients into a food processor and blend until smooth

Scrape down the sides between blending if necessary

Heat using your stovetop on low if required for your recipe

Healthy chocolate protein bites

Looking for a healthier alternative to your typical protein/granola bar? Look no further.

Ingredients

* Note, this ingredient list makes 16 bites

1 cup packed pitted Medjool dates

1/4 cup hulled hemp seed

1/4 cup chia seed

1/4 cup sesame seed

1/4 cup cocoa powder

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup mini-dark chocolate chips

Instructions

Add dates into food processor and process to a paste

Add in the hemp, chia, sesame, cocoa, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Process until thoroughly combined. The dough should be sticky when pressed between your fingers. If it’s not sticky enough to shape into balls, add a small amount of water (a teaspoon at a time) and process until it comes together.

Slowly add in mini chocolate chips

Shape mixture into small balls (about 16) and freeze for 20 minutes or so until firm

]]>https://sastr.ca/2018/11/19/5-must-try-hemp-seed-recipes/feed/01734Indica and Sativa: Finding Your Cannabis Strainhttps://sastr.ca/2018/11/12/indica-and-sativa-finding-your-cannabis-strain/
https://sastr.ca/2018/11/12/indica-and-sativa-finding-your-cannabis-strain/#respondMon, 12 Nov 2018 16:11:12 +0000http://sastr.ca/?p=1726While there are hundreds of different cannabis strains available to us today, traditionally (and still most popular), cannabis is broken down into 3 categories: indica, sativa and hybrid. But what do these terms mean? Where did they originate? What is the difference? This week, we’re discussing the origins of indica, sativa and hybrid cannabis, and […]

]]>While there are hundreds of different cannabis strains available to us today, traditionally (and still most popular), cannabis is broken down into 3 categories: indica, sativa and hybrid.

But what do these terms mean? Where did they originate? What is the difference? This week, we’re discussing the origins of indica, sativa and hybrid cannabis, and what else you should consider when choosing a strain.

History of the strains

The terms indica and sativa were introduced in the 18th century to describe different cannabis plant species.

Indica

Indica, named by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck, was used to describe the psychoactive plant varieties discovered in India. Here, the plant was harvested for seeds, fibre and hashish production.

The term “indica” is used to describe short, stout, broad-leaf plants with a short flowering cycle. People looking for relaxing, physically sedating results typically turn to indica strains.

Sativa

Sativa, named by Carl Linneaus, was used to describe hemp plants found in Europe and Western Eurasia, where the plant was used for its fiber and seeds.

The term “sativa” is used to describe tall, narrow-leaf plants with a longer flowering cycle. Those looking for an uplifting, cerebral, creative experience tend to lean toward a sativa cannabis strain.

Hybrid

Evidentially, a hybrid strain is used to describe a combination of indica and sativa.

Can I choose my cannabis strain based on “indica” and “sativa” alone?

While these industry terms are incredibly important to know and understand, to fully comprehend which cannabis strain will provide which effects, we need to dig much deeper.

Generally, these terms may come in handy when choosing your strain. But not all sativas will energize you. Not all indicas will sedate you. The effect of any strain depends on a number of different factors: chemical make-up of the plant, your body and tolerance, intake method and dose, to name a few.

What else should I consider when choosing a cannabis strain?

Cannabinoids

Each cannabis plant is made up of hundreds of cannabinoids, each one having a unique set of characteristics that impact your cannabis experience. To get started, the two main cannabinoids you should be familiar with are THC and CBD.

THC (or Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol) provides a more psychoactive experience. It can also make you feel hungry, and relieve feelings of physical pain.

CBD (or cannabidiol) is non toxicating. It is best known for relieving anxiety, inflammation and many other medical ailments.

Terpenes

Terpenes can be defined as aromatic compounds found in the essential oils of plants and fruits. Different terpenes can make you feel stimulated, sedated, relaxed and so much more, depending on which ones you use.

Your body

At the end of the day, it’s all about what your body can handle and how it interacts with cannabis. Do you have a high tolerance to THC? Are you susceptible to panic attacks, anxiety or depression? How long do you want the effects of cannabis to last in your body? Which intake method do you prefer? These are all important questions when it comes to choosing your strain.

Have more questions about the industry, cannabis or hemp? Contact us, we’re happy to help.

]]>https://sastr.ca/2018/11/12/indica-and-sativa-finding-your-cannabis-strain/feed/01726The History of Canadian Cannabishttps://sastr.ca/2018/11/05/the-history-of-canadian-cannabis/
https://sastr.ca/2018/11/05/the-history-of-canadian-cannabis/#respondMon, 05 Nov 2018 15:44:56 +0000http://sastr.ca/?p=1699It’s official, as of October 17, 2018, recreational cannabis is now legal in Canada. The struggle to get here has been an uphill journey with many setbacks, adjustments, and even a prohibition. To celebrate, we’re taking a look back on Canada’s history with the plant. 1801: Where it all began. Hemp seeds were distributed […]

1917: A new machine was invented, which would make is easier to separate hemp fibre. Unfortunately, hemp production decreased majorly while cotton production took off as it was a less labour-intensive process.

1923: Cannabis became illegal in Canada. The Narcotics Drug Act Amendment Bill introduced the Act to Prohibit the Improper Use of Opium and Other Drugs. They also added opium, cocaine and morphine to the list of drugs.

1962: Cannabis was becoming far more popular by this point. The number of cannabis-related arrests increased dramatically – 25 convictions between the years 1930 – 1946, compared to 20 cases in 1962 alone.

1968: Cannabis convictions continued to escalate (up to 2300, to be exact). Plant use increased among college students and hippie culture, specifically.

1971: The Gastown Riot. Hundreds of peaceful protestors gathered in Gastown, Vancouver to form the first pro-cannabis smoke-in. They were forcefully removed by police officers on horseback.

1972: The Le Dain Commission (see 1969 for a refresh) released a report on cannabis. The report suggested that federal government should remove criminal penalties for both possession and use of the plant. Unfortunately, no steps were taken to decriminalize.

1996: Terrance Parker, one of the first major cannabis advocates, was arrested for possession, cultivation and trafficking. He was caught growing cannabis and using it to relieve his epileptic seizures. Parker appealed to the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

2000: 4 years later, the Ontario Court of Appeal ruled that the prohibition of cannabis use infringed on Terrance Parker’s right to life, liberty and security, therefor rendering cannabis prohibition unconstitutional.

2006: Prime Minister Stephen Harper released a national anti-drug strategy which imposed mandatory prison sentences on cannabis dealers. Additionally, anyone growing more than 500 plants would face a sentence of 2 years minimum. Maximum penalties increased from 7 to 14 years in prison.

2011: Justice Donald Taliano ruled that the MMAR (see year 2001), as well as the prohibitions against the possession and production of cannabis were constitutionally invalid. He ordered the government to fix the program immediately.

2015: Cannabis baker Owen Smith was charged with possession of infused cookies. After he appealed the charge, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that restricting legal access to only dried flower violated the rights of medical cannabis patients. Therefore, licensed producers could now produce oils as well as flower. Additionally, medical patients were allowed to possess and alter different forms of cannabis.

2016: The MMPR (see year 2013) was challenged by Neil Allard for suspending personal production licenses from medical patients, requiring them to access the plant solely through licensed producers. The Federal Court of Canada revised the law again, releasing the Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations (ACMPR).

2017: The Government of Canada proposed the Cannabis Act, an Act that would legalize possession, use, cultivation and purchase of limited amounts of the plant by adults 19 years and older.

2018: The Cannabis Act officially goes into effect, legalizing for adult recreational use in Canada.

Have more questions about the industry? Contact us, we’re happy to help.

]]>https://sastr.ca/2018/11/05/the-history-of-canadian-cannabis/feed/01699Rick Simpson: Everything You Need To Knowhttps://sastr.ca/2018/10/15/everything-you-need-to-know-about-rick-simpson/
https://sastr.ca/2018/10/15/everything-you-need-to-know-about-rick-simpson/#respondMon, 15 Oct 2018 16:51:54 +0000http://sastr.ca/?p=1503Rick Simpson is most known for his Rick Simpson oil (RSO), highly potent decarboxylated extracts which are commonly used to control symptoms of: cancer, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, blood pressure, depression and much more. The original oil was produced from strong Indica strains, which can have THC levels up to 90%. Now, however, Rick Simpson oil […]

]]>Rick Simpson is most known for his Rick Simpson oil (RSO), highly potent decarboxylated extracts which are commonly used to control symptoms of: cancer, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, blood pressure, depression and much more. The original oil was produced from strong Indica strains, which can have THC levels up to 90%. Now, however, Rick Simpson oil also comes in a CBD oil, which is free of THC.

Rick Simpson is famous in the cannabis industry for discovering one of the first harmless, non-addictive natural alternative for many ailments and medical issues.

The Rick Simpson story

Rick Simpson is a Canadian medical cannabis advocate. In 1997, Simpson was an engineer working in a hospital boiler room. The boiler room was potent with aerosol glue and poorly ventilated. The toxic fumes sent Simpson into a temporary nervous system shock, causing him to fall off his ladder and hit his head.

After the accident, Simpson suffered from dizzy spells and a ringing in his ears. While his symptoms were treated with a prescribed medication, it had little effect and at times even made the dizziness worse.

Simpson’s journey with the cannabis industry began after seeing a documentary on its medical benefits. After seeing the documentary, he spoke to his doctor and was quickly shut down. In the end, he found cannabis elsewhere and immediately saw his symptoms improve.

Fast forward to 2003, Simpson was diagnosed with a form of skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma). Knowing he had experienced success with cannabis in the past, he chose to treat his cancer by topically applying concentrated oil to the spots, covering them with a bandage for a few days at a time and re applying.

After only four days, the spots had disappeared. Thus, making Simpson a believer in the medical cannabis world.

Rick Simpson Oil

After experiencing his own success first-hand, Simpson began cultivating and harvesting his own plants to create potent concentrates, which are now what we know and love to be Rick Simpson Oil (RSO).

Simpson made it is personal mission to get oil to those who needed it. Though he faced many setbacks – such as doctors refusing to acknowledge his access, arrests and confiscations of products and more—he continued to push forward with his goals while also spreading as much awareness as possible.

]]>https://sastr.ca/2018/10/15/everything-you-need-to-know-about-rick-simpson/feed/01503CBD for Epilepsyhttps://sastr.ca/2018/10/10/cbd-for-epilepsy/
https://sastr.ca/2018/10/10/cbd-for-epilepsy/#respondWed, 10 Oct 2018 14:30:03 +0000http://sastr.ca/?p=1491Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder. It can affect people of all ages. While there are many different combinations of medications that can be prescribed for epilepsy (depending on your specific symptoms), many of them cause harsh side effects that hinder one’s quality of life. Our Founder Cody Coulson can be used as […]

]]>Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder. It can affect people of all ages. While there are many different combinations of medications that can be prescribed for epilepsy (depending on your specific symptoms), many of them cause harsh side effects that hinder one’s quality of life.

Our Founder Cody Coulson can be used as one of many examples. Cody suffers from epilepsy. When he was diagnosed, he tried a long list of medications to help ease his symptoms. But with every prescription, Cody began experiencing negative side effects such as cold sweats, insomnia and a severe loss of his emotions.

Want to learn more about our Founder’s journey with epilepsy and CBD? Click here.

In recent years, CBD has become a natural alternative to help manage not only epilepsy, but also the side effects that come with most epilepsy medication. Here’s how:

What is epilepsy?

Generally speaking, epilepsy is a type of seizure disorder. It’s important to note that a seizure and epilepsy are not the same thing – meaning, it is possible to have a seizure without being epileptic.

Epilepsy is a condition where a person suffers from recurrent seizures. A seizure can be defined as an abnormal, disorderly discharge of the brain’s nerve cells. The discharge causes a temporary disturbance of motor, sensory and/or mental function. There are many different kinds of seizures an epilepsy patient may experience, depending which part of the brain is involved in the seizure.

How CBD works (in general)

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, CBD is non intoxicating and will actually work alongside it’s other cannabinoids to improve itself. In other words, THC improves the effects of CBD, while CBD decreases the psychoactive effects of THC.

CBD interacts with different receptors throughout the brain and body that help regulate things like adenosine, serotonin and vanilloid. These receptors help the body produce dopamine (which regulates mood, memory and pain perception) and glutamate (which helps with brain cognitive function in the body).

CBD and epilepsy

CBD can help to protect healthy neurons in the brain as well as repairing damaged neurons. It can also improve signaling between neurotransmitters in the brain that are misfiring – which is a large factor when it comes to seizures.

CBD also works to both repair damaged pathways and build new neuro pathways throughout the brain. Building these new pathways can help to decrease grey area. The less grey area the brain has, the more “complex” the brain becomes, which can slowly remove epileptic tendencies from the brain.

If you have further questions about CBD and how it can be used to help improve epileptic symptoms, contact us! We’re happy to help.

]]>https://sastr.ca/2018/10/10/cbd-for-epilepsy/feed/01491Here’s Why You Should Add Hemp Seeds to Your Diethttps://sastr.ca/2018/10/01/6-reasons-why-you-should-be-adding-hemp-seeds-to-your-diet/
https://sastr.ca/2018/10/01/6-reasons-why-you-should-be-adding-hemp-seeds-to-your-diet/#respondMon, 01 Oct 2018 15:19:21 +0000http://sastr.ca/?p=1474Hemp seeds are one of the most nutrient-rich foods available to us. They’re an excellent food to incorporate into your diet – the seeds are rich in healthy fats, minerals and protein. But most importantly, they taste delicious and are an extremely versatile food – you can add them to almost anything! If you don’t […]

]]>Hemp seeds are one of the most nutrient-rich foods available to us. They’re an excellent food to incorporate into your diet – the seeds are rich in healthy fats, minerals and protein. But most importantly, they taste delicious and are an extremely versatile food – you can add them to almost anything!

If you don’t currently incorporate hemp into your diet, here’s why you should consider making the switch:

1. Hemp seeds could help balance fatty acids

Hemp seeds are extremely rich in healthy fats. In fact, they have approximately a 3:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids (this ratio is considered excellent in the world of health and nutrition).

Fatty acids affect your immune system a great deal. Your immune system depends on having a healthy omega-6 to omega-3 balance.

2. Hemp seeds could help aid digestion

While de-hulled or shelled hemp seeds contain little amounts of fibre, whole seeds contain extremely high amounts. As you probably know, fibre is an essential part of your diet in terms of digestive health. But, just in case, we’ll break it down for you:

There are two types of fibre – soluble and non-soluble. Soluble fibre forms a gel-like substance in the stomach, which provides nutrients for digestive bacteria. It can also help reduce spikes in blood sugar and cholesterol.

Non-soluble fibre can help food and waste pass through the stomach.

3. Hemps seeds could help control PMS and menopause symptoms

Most women suffer from symptoms caused by PMS – whether physical or mental. Symptoms can include cramping, mood swings, and in some cases, even mental health ailments. Studies show that many of these symptoms are likely caused by sensitivity to a hormone called prolactin. Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) is an element found in hemp seeds that can actually reduce the effects of prolactin (this is because GLA produces something called prostaglandin E1).

While there is still much research to be done on the topic, several studied have stated that GLA could help regulate hormone imbalances and inflammation tied to PMS and menopause.

You can also purchase seeds that can be sprinkled on foods like salad, yogurt or oatmeal. They can also be incorporated into most cooking and baking (or, if you’re really dedicated, eaten by the spoonful!).

5. Hemp seeds could reduce risk of heart disease

Did you know that heart disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide? Nearly 1 in every 4 deaths is a result of heart disease.

The good news? Hemp seeds could help! Hemp seeds are a high source of arginine (an amino acid that produces nitric oxide in the body, and in turn helping blood vessels dilate) and gamma-linolenic acid (which can reduce inflammation).

6. Hemp seeds are filled with nutrients

The bottom line is, hemp seeds are filled with all sorts of healthy nutrients that our body thrives off of. Whether you suffer from one of the ailments above, or are looking for ways to keep healthy and happy in general, adding hemp to your diet could be just the solution.

Want to learn more about hemp nutrition? Contact us! We’re happy to help.

]]>https://sastr.ca/2018/10/01/6-reasons-why-you-should-be-adding-hemp-seeds-to-your-diet/feed/01474CBD and Thyroid Healthhttps://sastr.ca/2018/09/24/cbd-and-thyroid-health/
https://sastr.ca/2018/09/24/cbd-and-thyroid-health/#respondMon, 24 Sep 2018 15:15:20 +0000http://sastr.ca/?p=1463Thyroid conditions can affect people at any age and gender. In fact, did you know nearly 200 million people throughout the world suffer from some form of thyroid condition? While there are many medications to help aid these conditions, recent studies show that CBD could also be a solution. What is CBD? If you […]

]]>Thyroid conditions can affect people at any age and gender. In fact, did you know nearly 200 million people throughout the world suffer from some form of thyroid condition? While there are many medications to help aid these conditions, recent studies show that CBD could also be a solution.

What is CBD?

If you aren’t already informed about CBD, it’s important to understand what the molecule is and how it works in general prior to learning about how it can help specific ailments.

CBD (or Cannabidiol) is one of over 100 compounds in the cannabis or hemp plant. CBD is an anti-psychoactive. There are two groups of cannabinoid receptors inside the body; CB1 and CB2. The CBD molecule helps activate receptors in the body, such as adenosine, serotonin and vanilloid. These receptors help the body produce dopamine (which regulates mood, memory and pain perception) and glutamate (which helps with brain cognitive function in the body).

The Thyroid

The thyroid is an endocrine gland in the body. It is responsible for releasing hormones which control critical aspects of our function, such as metabolism, brain development, body temperature and heart/muscle function. If it releases too much (this is referred to as hyperthyroidism) or not enough (hypothyroidism) hormone, it can cause major damage in terms of organ functioning aid (and overall health).

Thyroid Conditions

There are multiple disorders that can be developed. Some of the most common include:

Thyroiditis – inflammation of the thyroid from swelling or autoimmune conditions

Thyroid storm – a rare and extreme form of hyperthyroidism

Thyroid nodules – lumps on the thyroid that could lead to excess hormone production in the body

Thyroid cancer

Thyroid Goiter (inflammation of the thyroid)

CBD for Thyroid Conditions

Most of the body’s thyroid function is regulated through our immune system. The immune system has a high quantity of CB2 receptors – cannabinoids actually help modulate the function of our immune cells – which CBD is responsible for interacting with. This means that by working to improve your immune system, CBD could also help regulate function.

Additionally, by controlling the release of critical receptors in the body (such as adenosine, serotonin and vanilloid, as we discussed earlier in the article) which help produce things like dopamine and glutamate, CBD could help the thyroid balance hormone release.

Finally, CBD is well-known for being an anti-inflammatory. As it interacts with the CB2 receptor, CBD can help reduce pain and inflammation in the body.

If you have further questions about CBD, contact us! We’re happy to help.